Squad Ratings: England Victory Sealed by Kane's Double in World Cup Qualifier
During a impressive showing, the English national team clinched another victory against their opponents, featuring a number of squad members delivering standout performances on the pitch.
First-choice Eleven
Dean Henderson Was rarely tested to perform in the first half before tested by an opponent's bent shot. One well-timed sliding tackle on an Albanian attacker highlighted excellent reading of the game. 6/10
The debutant Examined against the opposition's main danger in Hoxha. Played in a central role initially then shifted wider once a teammate was introduced. Seven
The defender Advanced forward on the ball, as he has done before. On occasion seemed hesitant on the ball and the tactic discontinued by the interval. 6
Dan Burn A nuisance from dead balls, typically, could serve as another option to Stones in the backline as opposed to his partner. One wayward ball later in the match almost led to the first goal for the visitors. 6/10
Nico O’Reilly Another assured performance from the 20-year-old following his first cap versus another side. Saka was unable to take the opportunity from a gorgeous flick behind their defense. His position is his to lose at this stage. Seven
Adam Wharton A debut start in an England shirt. A bit sloppy on the ball though his dangerous set-pieces posed a danger. An effective pace-controller available to the coach to call upon against teams who drop deep. Booked after a reckless tackle. 6
Declan Rice Crosses from dead balls and free kicks caused problems. Enjoyed license to drift in left midfield yet found himself in an offside position upon receiving in shooting positions. Given a well-earned substitution on the hour mark. 6/10
Jude Bellingham Played in an advanced spot down the right and also contributed with dirty work. Demonstrated glimpses of brilliance and mishit an attempt high. Substituted late on by a teammate, his rival, after receiving a caution. 7
The winger Had England’s clearest opportunity before halftime, his shot excellently kept out by Thomas Strakosha. As a teammate staying deep, it fell to him to stretch the play down the right side yet his deliveries into the box were hit and miss. Replaced for the final quarter-hour. Six
The captain The match-winner netting 77th and 78th finishes for his country. The first a typical opportunist's goal while the second an excellent header following a clever run away from the opposition. Aged 32, his form is unwavering and England stand a real opportunity in future competitions when he's in the team. 8/10
The attacker Struggled to get into the game out wide. Had a decent opportunity when set up by Bellingham but the keeper denied him. Rashford made much more of an impact in his place. 5/10
Substitutes
- Phil Foden (replacing Rice on 63 minutes) Appeared sharp connecting effectively with the striker in a natural spot, 6/10
- Bukayo Saka (for Eze 63) Spurned chances although his set-piece led to the breakthrough, 6
- Marcus Rashford (replacing the attacker 75) Energetic upon introduction and provided Kane’s second with a brilliant delivery to the back post, Seven
- Elliot Anderson (for Wharton in the 75th minute) Seems settled already, Six
- Rogers (replacing the star with minutes remaining) Too brief a spell to influence the game, 6/10